Why Mesut Ozil Would Be A Perfect Fit At Manchester United If A Deal Ever Materialises
Mesut Ozil’s contract conundrum has taken a massive ‘u-turn’ in recent weeks and the player who was tipped to extend his stay beyond next summer has reportedly refused a new contract offer amidst interest from Arsenal’s Premier League rivals Manchester United, managed by his former Real Madrid gaffer Jose Mourinho.
The iconic German international might see out his contract which has less than a year left in it and may join the Red Devils on a Bosman transfer next summer. But the Portuguese tactician might offer him a way out in January when the transfer window reopens and the Gunners will be forced to reluctantly let him leave, rather than losing a quality resource like him for free in July 2018.
Ozil joined the Gunners back in 2013 following three successful campaigns with Los Blancos. He won the La Liga title during the 2011-12 season there and was a key performer under current Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho.
He was acquired by Arsene Wenger for a fee of £42.4m with a view to make Arsenal as favourites to win the League title as well as perform better in the prestigious Champions League competition. The German attacker had a slow start as he took time to settle in the Premier League but started showing his quality from the very next campaign. He was elected as the Gunners’ Player of the Season in 2015-16 as he provided the most number of assists in the league.
Ozil’s performance, however, started fading from last season as he lacked creativity. His poor work ethic during critical encounters was immensely criticised by the pundits. He failed to win the league for the Gunners, and neither did Arsene Wenger’s men fare well in the Champions League. Moreover, they slipped out of a ‘top-4’ finish last season, that cost them a Champions League berth, which has resulted in their top stars refusing to extend their stay.
The 28-year-old German superstar’s career has come to a stalemate and Ozil is now seeking a new challenge to achieve greater glory. A move to Old Trafford will allow him to win silverware under Mourinho, who knows his game very well. United, however, already have a number of quality resources in the German’s slot. Though Ozil mostly plays as an attacking midfielder, he can also be deployed on the wings and will have to compete with the likes of Juan Mata, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford, who have been in sublime form for the Red Devils this season.
The ex-Real Madrid attacker is certainly not a necessity for Manchester United but considering Mourinho’s admiration of Ozil’s gameplay, a move is now a real possibility.
Ozil has not been too effective in Arsenal’s pressing, holding and passing game but might suit Manchester United’s link-up play, the channel runs, and crossing traits for their prolific hitman Romelu Lukaku. Ozil’s arrival will boost their opportunities further to win the league and challenge for the same in upcoming campaigns.